The Importance of Collagen To The Skin

May 18, 2010

Collagen is a group of proteins found exclusively in animals and makes up about 25% to 35% of the body’s protein content. It is the main protein that makes up our connective tissue. It provides strength and flexibility to everything from skin to tendons, ligaments, and muscle tissue; as well as to organs, cartilage, teeth, nails, hair and placenta.

Both my Mom and Grandma have this thing where the littlest bump on their arm turns into a massive bruise. The bruises are deep purple, blue, and red colors and they seemed to never go away.

It is so extreme for my Grandma that sometimes her whole arm is covered and now she will only wears long-sleeve shirts. As is the case for many elderly folks, her skin is also fragile and easily peels back if a bandaid is applied. It is very unpleasant to say the least and very common for aging skin.

About two months ago I asked Dr. Staninger about this and her answer was, “Collagen, that means she needs collagen…and vitamin C” and passed this along to my Mom.

Without diving too deep into Biology or Physiology 101, remember that every 3 months we have all new skin cells. Its also important to remember that Dr. Staninger states that chronic illness and exposure to toxins and pollution will significantly deplete our proteins, minerals, etc. For some folks that would mean they have a double whammy against them.

The body is a truly amazing organism, the fact that by consistently supplementing ourselves with these important nutrients (eg. collagen and vitamin C) means we can have new, healthier skin within 3 months. This is remarkable.

Yesterday my Mom and I were chatting on the phone and I was right in the middle of talking about something else when she piped up and said, “That collagen stuff is really working!”

It was very funny in the moment because it came out of left field and of course, I had to ask…”oh really, what’s happening, are they all gone?
She said no, she would still get the bruises but they were healing in twice the time. They did not last for weeks like they used to.

Checking in again with Dr. Staninger I asked her specifically, if my Mom keeps taking the supplements, will there eventually be a time when she doesn’t even bruise like that anymore? Her answer was yes. This is an indication that this deficiency is being corrected. In the big picture, if we restore the optimal function and balance to our system, the healing will occur from inside out.

It’s important to educate ourselves as much as possible. This post is a simplification to the complex systems and processes of regaining our health when needed. I do not want to give the impression that this is all you have to do for your health. I believe it takes a step by step change of mind and lifestyle, and by doing something that you can positively feel the difference from will give you the motivation for the next necessary step.

For some interesting reading, Google up the term ‘antioxidant network’ to learn for yourself about the complexity and workings of the body. Far more interesting than what’s on the TV tonight and far better for your health and vitality!

One of our motto’s at the Healing Grapevine is, “There is no reason to stay sick and there should be no side effects to regaining your health.”

Check out the Collagen that Dr. Staninger recommends: Collagen Type I & III

Ramona and the HGV Team.